Wayne State University's cross country teams, led by head coach Grant Lofdahl, have unveiled their 2026 competition schedule. The team is gearing up for a challenging season, aiming to balance the development of a young women's squad and an experienced men's team with postseason aspirations. Key events include co-hosting the season opener at Cass Benton, participation in the competitive Louisville Classic, and development on the tough course at Parkside, which will host regional finals. The season culminates with the NCAA Championships on December 4 in Lawrence, Kansas.

By the Numbers
  • The season opens on September 12, with the Tommy T vs. W Classic at Cass Benton Park.
  • The NCAA Division II Championships are scheduled for December 4 in Lawrence, Kansas.
State of Play
  • The women's team is inexperienced, while the men's team is anticipated to be competitive.
  • Wayne State will host one home meet this season, the Warrior Challenge, on October 24.
What's Next

The teams will focus on building experience in upcoming meets, especially at regional courses, to enhance their chances for NCAA qualification. Training and strategies will be honed as they approach the postseason, with an emphasis on maximizing performance at key events such as the GLIAC Championships and the NCAA Midwest Regional.

Bottom Line

Wayne State's cross country teams are positioned to make a strong push for NCAA Championship qualifications in 2026, bolstered by a strategic schedule designed to expose athletes to critical competition venues and to build team cohesion ahead of the postseason.